Who doesn’t love a meal that’s delicious, easy, and leaves you with minimal dishes to wash?
Well, you’re in for a treat! Our one pot lemon garlic parmesan pasta is a game-changer in the kitchen.
One pot meals are the perfect solution for busy home cooks who want to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this zesty, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying pasta dish that’ll have you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz (340g) linguine or spaghetti
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, combine the pasta, broth, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- As the pasta cooks, the liquid will reduce and form a creamy sauce.
- Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove from heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Add chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for Perfect One Pot Pasta Every Time
- Choose the right pot size: Use a pot that’s wide enough to lay the pasta flat.
- Liquid-to-pasta ratio secrets: Start with slightly more liquid than you think you need – you can always cook it down.
- Stirring techniques to prevent sticking: Stir frequently, especially in the beginning, to prevent clumping.
- Adjusting consistency and seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, cook a bit longer.
Variations and Customizations
Want to mix things up? Try these tasty twists:
- Vegetarian and vegan options: Use vegetable broth and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-free alternatives: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Spicy twists: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for some heat.
- Seasonal vegetable additions: Toss in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
Our one pot wonder isn’t just delicious – it’s nutritious too!
- Protein content from parmesan cheese helps keep you feeling full.
- Vitamin C from fresh lemon boosts your immune system.
- Garlic’s immune-boosting properties add an extra health kick.
- Carbohydrates from pasta provide energy for your busy day.
Pairing Suggestions
Make it a meal to remember with these perfect pairings:
- Wine recommendations: A crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the lemon and garlic flavors.
- Side salad ideas: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta.
- Bread options: Garlic bread or focaccia are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Dessert pairings: End on a sweet note with lemon sorbet or vanilla panna cotta.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- How to store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating instructions: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Freezing guidelines: While best fresh, you can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal prep possibilities: Cook the pasta slightly al dente if you plan to reheat later in the week.
There you have it – your new go-to recipe for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!
Our one pot lemon garlic parmesan pasta is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s creamy, zesty, and utterly satisfying.
Plus, with just one pot to clean, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and your evening. Why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds (and your dishwasher) will thank you!
Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us – we’d love to see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti works well. Adjust cooking time for shorter pasta shapes.
How can I make it less lemony?
Simply reduce the amount of lemon juice and zest to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
One Pot Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g linguine or spaghetti
- 4 cups 960ml chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 cup 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup 60ml heavy cream
- ¼ cup 15g fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, combine the pasta, broth, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- As the pasta cooks, the liquid will reduce and form a creamy sauce.
- Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove from heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Add chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.
This was so delicious and I can’t wait to make it again!!! I am vegan and was easily able to sub out ingredients so I could eat it.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review! So happy you loved it!